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EVENT: Glenn Jones/ Leaves From Off the Trees/ Baird Sisters

Glenn JonesWhile there's certainly no dearth of post- American Primitive finger-picking acoustic guitarists out there these days, none even remotely come close to the well-worn, actual SONGCRAFT of Glenn Jones. Pieces flow, unhurried and thoughtful. You know how Robbie Basho used to instruct the audience to envision birds swirling around a French cathedral in "Cathedral Et Fleur Lis" and even if you've never been to France whatsoever you can still SEE it? Glenn Jones too has that ability to conjure up memories and images of people and places you've never had or met. He is the only true heir to the Takoma tradition. Whether roughly using a bottle slide, shimmering a 12 string, or slowly plucking a banjo, this guy is the real deal.

Leaves From Off The TreesLeaves From Off the Trees was a record that came out a few years back that documented the hang-out sessions of Meg Baird, Sharron Kraus, and Helena Espvall. Those fortunate enough to find a copy were rewarded with versions of classics like "Willy O Winsbury" performed in a casual and friendly fashion by voices, guitars, and cello. The songs culled from the folk traditions of both America and the British Isles, and were performed in a loose manner befitting a slightly drunken post-dinner party jam more than an uptight "proper" studio setting. The players are known for their works with intricate acid-folkers Espers, bludgeoning sullen punkers Watery Love, guitar psych hero Masaki Batoh, to mention but a few, not to mention their own illustrious solo careers. This is an international outfit, and thus a rare opportunity to see them should not be missed.

The Baird SistersBaird Sisters are Meg and Laura Baird. A guitar, a banjo, and 2 sets of mesmerizingly clear and gorgeous vocals, singing songs cultivated from a lifetime immersion in Appalachain folk. Not be heretical, but they do a version of Gene Clark's "Silver Raven" that is every bit as breathtaking as the original, possibly more so.